Lt. Governor Russ Mirasty opened the fall session of the Legislature by paying respects to the victims of the James Smith Cree Nation stabbing rampage, Sept. 4, which left 11 people dead and many more injured.
Mirasty acknowledged that in light of these tragic events, more must be done to ensure the safety of people.
“This session, my government will establish the Saskatchewan Marshals Service, which will work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to enhance law enforcement across Saskatchewan,” Mirasty said Wednesday afternoon. “The Saskatchewan Marshals Service will also provide emergency and specialized support to other law enforcement organizations when requested.”
Brothers, Damien and Myles Sanderson are accused by RCMP with the planning or with the execution of planned attacks in early September. Both had warrants out for their arrests, but were not apprehended. Mounties admitted that on Sept. 3, Damien was suspected by police of a stolen vehicle, but officers were working off an old photograph. While officers did encounter Damien, they could not positively identify him, as he provided a false name to police. Arresting those with outstanding warrants will be a priority for the government as it looks to add additional resources.
“In the months ahead, my government will add eight more officers to the Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team in Prince Albert and will add one more Crime Reduction Team in North Battleford. The recent tragedies in our province have also exposed weaknesses in the warrant enforcement process that must be addressed immediately,” Mirasty said.
In the wake of the tragedy, the James Smith Cree Nation and others have expressed an interest in forming First Nations administered police services. Recently Federal Public Safety Minister Marco Mendincino, the province and the James Smith Cree Nation signed an agreement to collaboratively work together to explore community-oriented policing services.
“My government is now consulting on ways to develop responsive, community-based policing models that meet the needs of First Nations communities. This includes discussions with the Prince Albert Grand Council and the federal government on how a self-administered First Nations police service could be created,” explained Mirasty.
The Throne Speech, is very partisan against the federal government, highlighting the displeasure Premier Scott Moe and his government have. Moe will look to strengthen provincial autonomy over immigration, natural resources and corporate tax collection, while defending lawful gun owners. Mirasty’s speech struck a balance of sunny ways for the province, highlighting increased immigration, lower unemployment and more surgeries, attempting to bolster the health care system by trying to attract overseas health professionals. The pro-business approach will see increased international trade opportunities, as Saskatchewan will seek to export more goods.
(Lt. Governor Russ Mirasty delivering the Throne Speech.)